University must tackle lack of equality between male and female scholars

Inequality between men and women in academia still exists, concluded the National Network of Female Professors (LNVH) last month. Women scholars with children, whether they work full time or part time, receive 5 percent less research time than their male colleagues who are fathers. Women also claim that they are given fewer research resources, travel budget or assistance. These are small differences that can amount to great inequality over the course of their career, according to the researchers.

This is a cause for concern, writes Minister of Education, Ingrid Van Engelshoven, in response to Parliamentary questions, but she sees no reason for further investigation. She feels that every scholar must be given equal opportunities, and this must be monitored by the university. If institutions recognise the subconscious prejudices that produce the differences mentioned, they can start valuing and rewarding the scholars more objectively.

Universities and the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) are currently considering new forms of remuneration. Scholars are now assessed too much on the number of publications, the impact factor and the number of grants awarded. A new form of remuneration also offers prospects to change the (hidden) differences in the content and circumstances of work and terms of employment, says Van Engelshoven.